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Planet In1 Destination Europe - Switzerland

Switzerland, at the heart of Europe, is bordered by Germany in the north, Austria and the Principality of Liechtenstein in the east, Italy in the south and France in the west. From northeast to southwest the three main regions are the Jura, the Plateau and the Alps. Divided into 26 cantons or districts, it is an interesting country with a mix of cultures and completely diverse landscapes, all in a small area. There are four official languages: mainly German, with French in the west, Italian in the south and Rumantsch spoken only in Grisons, by just 0.5 % of the population. Along with the many foreign residents speaking their own languages, the country is a real tower of Babel.

With snow on the majestic Alps all year round, the scenery in the rest of the country changes with the seasons, from green meadows in Spring, to Summer blossoms and fall foliage.

With the highest railway station, tram, museum and golf course and the longest glacier, as well as more high peaks than any other country in Europe, Switzerland is justifiably proud of its mountains. With so many tourists coming to enjoy them, the railway system provides an efficient, affordable form of transport.

Bern, the Swiss capital, with its medieval clock tower, lovely fountains and many shops and restaurants make this a popular town to be viewed on foot.

Zurich, the most populated city and a central point for train services, is a good base for sightseeing, has great shopping and good food.

Geneva, a pretty, clean city on Lake Geneva, has over 200 international organisations headquartered here. Strolls around the lake and boating are popular activities.

Lucerne with the rebuilt Kappelbrucke Bridge, the Lion Monument and National Transport Museum, is a favourite city of many tourists, with its picturesque location.

The Swiss are famous for their luxurious chocolate, cheeses, precision clocks and watches, banking and of course skiing and winter sports. As well as skiing, snowboarding, snowblading, tobogganing, skating, snowtubing, snow-scooting and snow-biking are all activities enjoyed by the fit or at least the willing.

Swimming, hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, para gliding and bungee jumping are also popular sports, especially in summer.